Athensville – Undressing Minds for Show (Athensville)

Following up 2018’s Proper EP, this Philadelphia foursome (whose moniker was the original name of Ardmore, the Philly suburb where they first rehearsed) sound even more inspired and imposing on this debut LP. Past reviews have accurately noted singer Matthew Taglang’s uncanny vocal resemblance to R.E.M.’s Michael Stipe; coupled with the iridescent, soaring guitars of David Perry, uplifting songs like “No Decay,” “Terrible Cure,” and “The Mentalist” recall Document’s “Finest Worksong” or Reveal’s “I’ll Take the Rain,” reinforced with a hefty, Oasis/Doves/U2 alterna-rock stomp. Elsewhere, forceful rhythm section Mark S. Walsh and James Farrell instill brisker numbers “Something Real” (and its Stone Roses “Fool’s Gold” groove) and “Head Start” with a tighter, Accelerate-like drive. With repeat listens, however, the above comparisons fade, and Undressing reveals a compelling band with its own unique character.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud | YouTube

“No Decay”

“Something Real”